Lawrence and Nohria's Four Drive Theory

Question 1

What is the four drive theory?

Answer 1

A theory of motivation that believes humans have 4 aspirations that we must achieve. These include…
-The drive to acquire
-The drive to bond
-The drive to learn
-The drive to defend.

Question 2

The drive to acquire

Answer 2

The drive to acquire combines basic and complex wants, these can include…
-Wanting the basics for survival such as money and shelter.
-Or wanting accomplishment and power.

Question 3

The drive to bond

Answer 3

The drive to bond is the need to find and engage in relationships. This includes having quality relationships with coworkers and even managers.

Question 4

The drive to learn

Answer 4

The drive to learn refers to the need for education and understanding. This can come in the form of understanding your role or being able to further your abilities in the workplace.

Question 5

The drive to defend

Answer 5

The drive to defend is where employees feel such pride and attachment to the company that they are motivated to defend it against all attacks.

Question 6

Strengths of the four drive theory

Answer 6

-A manager can target different drives of specific groups of employees.
-A manager might also be able to motivate all employees by targeting all drives simultaneously.

Question 7

Limitations of the four drive theory

Answer 7

-Employees may not value all drives equally.
-Determining the specific needs of specific groups may be time consuming.